The ScrapStore at East Kent Mencap - Thanet’s Hidden Gem for Feel Good Crafting

The ScrapStore at East Kent Mencap (EKM) in Ramsgate is celebrating its first anniversary since opening to the public last September and already has a loyal customer base of local craft groups, schools, artists and keen hobbyists. Run by the members of East Kent Mencap’s GOLD Project, which provides support to adults with learning disabilities who live independently or with unpaid carers, the ScrapStore at EKM provides visitors with access to affordable craft materials.

From wool, thread and fabric to glitter, beads and card, all stock has been donated and the project has diverted over two tonnes of craft materials from landfill since it started collecting in the summer of 2020.

Project Coordinator, Amy Johnson explains: “Not only is it good for the environment, but the ScrapStore also provides opportunities for members of GOLD to learn new skills, which can help them gain employment. Our members weigh, sort and display donated craft materials, greet and assist our visitors, update our social media accounts and carry out admin duties.”

Admin Assistant, Tanya explains: “I record all of the donations we receive on a spreadsheet and use that information to write a monthly report to help us understand the impact we're having on the environment and local community.”

Kathy is a ScrapStore Assistant and processes all the donations we receive and displays them in store. Kathy says: “I help to keep the ScrapStore tidy - I like to be organised! I enjoy socialising and have made new friends at the ScrapStore, everyone has been so kind, patient and welcoming.”

Visitors to The ScrapStore at EKM are able to access craft materials in a really affordable way - each basket of goods is a suggested minimum donation of £5 (but of course, if you think it’s worth more we’d really appreciate it!) and all money raised goes to East Kent Mencap to support the work of the charity.

As well as offering low cost crafting materials, the project runs a number of weekly groups where members can gain skills and make friends. To celebrate Learning Disability Week 2022 in June their Wednesday Crafternoon group yarn-bombed Ellington Park’s bandstand with knitted and crocheted bunting, blankets and pom-poms, as well as wind chimes and other crafted decorations all sourced at the ScrapStore. They also made a video – scan the QR code to watch it.

The ScrapStore at EKM is in Foresters Hall, Meeting Street, CT11 9RT is currently open on Wednesdays from 10am – 4pm and also on the first Saturday of the month from 10am – 1pm (October 1, November 5 and December 3).

Email Tanya at scrapstore.ekm@outlook.com to book a browsing appointment at the ScrapStore, or for more information and to join the EKM mailing list.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @scrapstore.ekm to keep up to date with our seasonal news.

We can’t wait to welcome you to our treasure trove of craft materials!

Written by:
Amy Johnson,
East Kent Mencap